Neil won the first British U11 ahead of Nigel Short.
He still played board 1 or 2 for Essex. He was an FM and played in the 100th British Championship in 2013.
Ivor Smith has sent the following:
I am absolutely devstated, such sadness and a dreadful shock. Neil, so talented, helpful and considerate will be sorely missed by all who knew him and a loss like this at such a young age is so difficult to comprehend.

Neil ded in Jersey. He took the dog for a walk and died of a heart attack totally unexpectedly at 47.
Our condolences to his wife, chidren and family. We knew his mother father, brother and sister well in chess.

Nigel Short was a few years older (and ahead ) of Neil . I can relate the occasion (and game ) of when they first met . Maybe thats a story for when the pain has passed .
Better to recall the fact that Neil represented his country in the Glorney Cup on board one (when Mickey Adams was board 2) .
He wasn't just a "talented youngster"......he was so much more.

During the four years I played at London Central YMCA Neil was the strongest junior player for most of the time, which was quite an achievement considering how strong the London Central YMCA junior section was at the time.

I also believe that Sue Carr was the 1st team London League captain in the season I joined in 1981/82, a role that was filled by Gary Stevens in 1982/83 and Daryl Taylor in 1983/84 and 1984/85. The Carr family I believe also ran the club snack bar in 1981/82 and for part of 1982/83.

Neil's parents, his brother Trevor, sister Sue, and Neil himself were all very pleasant people and I send my condolences to the members of Neil's family that he is leaving behind.